Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, stated that his country is seeking to establish a "unique alliance" with the European Union to strengthen its international relations amid a trade war with the United States.
Efforts to Strengthen International Relations
Carney told reporters on Sunday at the Toronto International Film Festival, "What we are looking for and will begin discussions on is a unique alliance with the European Union." He added, "We share common values, have the same priorities, and have very complementary strengths." This shift in Canada's approach comes in light of increasing tensions between Carney's government and the Trump administration.
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Last week, Canada imposed retaliatory tariffs that align with the economic pressure from the United States. Carney has advised Canadians to regain their economic power, and many have begun boycotting U.S. products. Trump has also repeatedly threatened Canada's sovereignty and has explicitly expressed his desire to annex the country as "State 51."
New Cooperation Structure
According to Canada's annual trade report, the United States accounted for 72.5% of Canadian goods exports in 2025, making it Canada's largest trading partner. However, Carney is seeking to create an international support network that is not dependent on the United States.
In the 18 months since Carney took office, Canada has signed agreements with countries such as Indonesia, Japan, and Ecuador in trade and defense sectors. In January, he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping to shape what he called a "new strategic partnership" and to end Canada's economic dependence on the American market.
Carney has recently engaged with a group of executives and senior leaders of global investment firms at the Canada Investment Summit in Toronto to encourage them to invest in the country. He is also set to travel to Europe for a three-day visit, where he will meet with various European leaders, including British Prime Minister Andy Burnham. He is also scheduled to speak at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, which could symbolize the beginning of a new era between Canada and Europe.
Carney emphasized that Canada is not seeking membership in the European Union but is focused on forming an alliance. He stated, "We are stronger together, and this is at a time when the world has become more dangerous and divided, and friends should stick together in these times." At the same time, Article 49 of the EU Treaty clearly states that any "European country" can apply for membership, which makes Canada ineligible.
However, a report from a credible source indicates that Carney is seeking for Canada to be recognized as an "associated member" of the European Union. Carney is striving for deeper cooperation through additional trade agreements or drawing inspiration from countries that have close ties with the Union, without being a member.
These efforts are in response to global changes as the United States moves towards protectionist and nationalist policies, and Canada seeks to establish new collaborations with like-minded countries in liberal democracy, free markets, and international law.
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